“We must focus only on Livorno, where we will not find an easy atmosphere. This is an important game for our season,” said the Coach.

Donadoni had been on the Livorno bench from January 2005 to February 2006, his first Serie A management job, until he resigned due to a row with President Aldo Spinelli.

“I am very fond of Livorno, as this club gave me the opportunity to step on to the main football stage. I am proud of my time here.”

Last week Donadoni caused shockwaves when he dropped star player Cassano to the bench, while FantAntonio also confirmed he had tried to engineer a January move to Sampdoria.

“It’s inevitable that people talk about players like Cassano, but all the players are proving themselves. I don’t like those who define him the ‘icing on the cake,’ as he is something solid, important and brings substance to the team.”